Protect yourself from Medicare fraud and medical identity theft by safeguarding your Medicare card like a credit card. Never share your Medicare number with anyone who contacts you unsolicited by phone, email, or in person. Only give your Medicare information to doctors, pharmacies, and other Medicare providers you trust.
Be alert to common scams. Medicare will never call to sell you anything or visit your home uninvited. They already have your Medicare number and won’t ask for it over the phone. If someone claims you need a new Medicare card or offers free medical equipment in exchange for your Medicare number, it’s a scam.
Monitor your Medicare activity regularly. Review your Medicare Summary Notice if you have Original Medicare or check statements from your Medicare Advantage plan. Log into your secure Medicare account at Medicare.gov to view claims within 24 hours of processing. Keep a calendar of medical appointments and save all receipts to compare against your statements.
If you spot suspicious charges, contact the provider for an itemized statement within 30 days. Report suspected fraud immediately to Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE or the fraud hotline at 1-800-447-8477.